Celidonio Pereira (1939–2026) passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family in Canada.

Celidonio’s life was defined by courage, perseverance and devotion to family. His journey took him across multiple countries: from India to Kenya, back to India, then to the United Arab Emirates, and ultimately to Canada where he chose to settle permanently in hopes of providing a better life for those he loved most. 

Every move he made was guided by sacrifice and an unwavering commitment to his family’s future. He married his beloved wife, Francisca Pereira, and together they shared 54 years of love, partnership and resilience. They raised three children: Lino, Chris, and Astra instilling in them the values of hard work, generosity and compassion that Celidonio lived by every day. 

Celidonio was a deeply caring man and an exceptionally hard worker throughout his entire life, continuing to give his all even into his retirement years. His family meant everything to him more than anything else in the world (even his well‑known love of chocolate). He loved travelling, whether to see loved ones across the world, see new sights or ride all the rollercoasters at Disneyland or the American muscle cars in Cuba. He never complained when his family would drag him out at 10 pm for an ice cream run, or when his daughter brought home a cat (Nyoko) and a dog (Nahla) without any prior discussion. He was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back without hesitation, never wavering in his generosity or in his concern for the well‑being of others. He always put his family first, rallying harder for them than he ever did for himself. 

Celidonio is survived by his devoted wife, Francisca; his children Lino, Chris, Astra (Amol); and Nyoko. He was predeceased by Nahla, who remained forever in his heart. 

Services:

Viewing will take place at 10:00 am on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at St. Luke's Roman Catholic Church in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, Canada.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am.  Celebrant Rev. Andrew Ezeonyeikedi, CCE.

Following the Mass, Burial at the Gardens of Gethsemani in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada.

In lieu of flowers, Celidonio would have wished for something far more meaningful: that we offer our time, kindness, and support to those facing housing insecurity. He never passed someone in need without ensuring they had something warm to eat or drink, and he would hope we carry forward that same compassion wherever possible.

Celidonio’s generosity, unwavering love for his family, and remarkable strength through life’s hardest moments live on in all who knew him. He is deeply missed, profoundly loved, and will forever remain in our hearts.

Love you always and for an eternity